If you’re a product designer, you know how essential it is to stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in your field. And what better way to do that than by diving into a book on product design? Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, we’ve got you covered with our curated list of the 20 best books about product design. From classics to contemporary gems, these product design books will inspire you, spark new ideas, and help you level up your skills. So, grab a cup of coffee, cozy up, and let’s explore the fascinating world of product design together.
Contents
- 1 The Design of Everyday Things
- 2 Creative Confidence
- 3 Don’t Make Me Think
- 4 The Lean Startup
- 5 Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products
- 6 The Innovator’s Dilemma
- 7 Emotional Design
- 8 Sprint: How to Solve Big Problems and Test New Ideas in Just Five Days
- 9 The Design of Business
- 10 Designing for Interaction
- 11 The Art of Innovation
- 12 The Design of Future Things
- 13 Change by Design
- 14 Universal Principles of Design
- 15 The Design Thinking Playbook
- 16 Designing Interactions
- 17 The Design of Design
- 18 Designing Brand Identity
- 19 The Elements of User Experience
- 20 Designing for Growth
- 21 Conclusion
The Design of Everyday Things
by Don Norman
The Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman is a captivating book on product design that delves into the intricacies of how well-designed products can enhance our daily lives. Norman explores the concept of user-centered design and emphasizes the importance of creating products that are intuitive, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. This thought-provoking book about product design challenges readers to question the usability of everyday objects, such as door handles and light switches, and offers practical insights on improving their design. With his extensive background in cognitive science, Norman demonstrates how a well-designed product can have a profound impact on our overall experience. Whether you’re a product designer or simply curious about the world around you, this product design book is an excellent resource for understanding the principles behind great design.
Creative Confidence
by Tom Kelley and David Kelley
Creative Confidence is a captivating book on product design written by the dynamic duo, Tom Kelley and David Kelley. This inspiring read dives deep into the world of product design, exploring the limitless possibilities and the power of creativity. With their extensive experience and expertise, the Kelley brothers take readers on a journey, unraveling the secrets behind successful and innovative design.
But this book is not just about product design; it is a manifesto for anyone seeking to tap into their creative potential. Through engaging stories, practical exercises, and thought-provoking insights, Tom and David Kelley empower readers to embrace their own creative confidence.
So, whether you’re a designer, entrepreneur, or simply someone looking to unlock your creative side, this product design book will ignite your imagination and inspire you to think differently. Get ready to unleash your creative potential and build a world full of innovative possibilities!
Don’t Make Me Think
by Steve Krug
Don’t Make Me Think, a renowned book on product design by Steve Krug, is an absolute gem for anyone seeking to enhance their understanding of user experience. This captivating book about product design is like a compass, guiding readers through the intricacies of creating intuitive and user-friendly websites. Krug’s writing style is refreshingly concise and engaging, making it an effortless read for individuals from all walks of life. With a focus on usability and simplifying complex concepts, this product design book will equip you with practical tips and strategies to ensure your digital creations are seamless and effective. So, if you’re ready to dive into the world of user experience design and want a book that perfectly encapsulates its essence, look no further than Don’t Make Me Think!
The Lean Startup
by Eric Ries
The Lean Startup by Eric Ries is a game-changing book on product design that challenges traditional methods and revolutionizes the way startups and companies approach innovation. Ries introduces the concept of the “build-measure-learn” feedback loop, emphasizing the importance of rapid experimentation and iteration to create successful products. This book about product design encourages entrepreneurs to test their assumptions early and often, allowing them to make more informed decisions and pivot when necessary. Ries shares practical techniques and real-world case studies, making it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to build and launch products that truly resonate with customers. With its fresh perspective and actionable insights, The Lean Startup is a must-read for anyone seeking to thrive in the fast-paced and constantly evolving world of business.
Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products
by Nir Eyal
Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products by Nir Eyal is a captivating book about product design that delves into the psychology behind creating addictive and habit-forming experiences for users. Eyal explores the Hook Model, a four-step process that companies can use to build products that keep users coming back for more. With real-world examples and practical advice, this book offers valuable insights on how to create products that seamlessly integrate into users’ daily lives, forming strong habits and generating long-term engagement. Whether you’re a designer, entrepreneur, or marketer, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the psychology of habit formation and create products that leave a lasting impact.
The Innovator’s Dilemma
by Clayton M. Christensen
The Innovator’s Dilemma by Clayton M. Christensen is a groundbreaking book that delves into the intricate world of product design. With a fresh and innovative perspective, this book challenges conventional thinking and explores the dilemma faced by companies when disruptive technologies threaten their existing products. Christensen’s captivating narrative takes readers on a journey through various industries, revealing how established companies often fail to adapt to changing market dynamics, while new entrants seize opportunities and disrupt the status quo. This thought-provoking book about product design sheds light on the critical decisions that companies must make to stay ahead of the curve and secure their future in a rapidly evolving business landscape.
Emotional Design
by Don Norman
Emotional Design by Don Norman is a captivating book on product design that delves into the relationship between design and human emotions. This must-read book explores how the aesthetic appeal of a product affects our emotional response to it. Norman argues that successful product design goes beyond functionality, emphasizing the importance of creating products that evoke positive emotions in users.
With his expertise and engaging storytelling, Norman takes readers on a journey through the world of design, discussing the impact of sensory experiences, usability, and aesthetics on our emotional connection to products. Through numerous examples and case studies, he illustrates how well-designed products can evoke joy, delight, and even attachment.
If you’re looking for a thought-provoking and insightful book about product design, Emotional Design is the perfect choice. Norman’s unique perspective and passion for the subject make this book an invaluable resource for designers, marketers, and anyone interested in the power of emotional design.
Sprint: How to Solve Big Problems and Test New Ideas in Just Five Days
by Jake Knapp
Sprint: How to Solve Big Problems and Test New Ideas in Just Five Days by Jake Knapp is an incredible book on product design that will revolutionize the way you approach problem-solving. In this book about product design, Knapp introduces the concept of the “sprint,” a five-day process that helps teams rapidly prototype and test new ideas. Whether you’re a startup founder, a product manager, or a designer, this product design book provides a step-by-step guide on how to tackle complex challenges and validate ideas quickly. With real-world examples and practical advice, Sprint will teach you how to cut through the noise, focus on what really matters, and deliver innovative solutions in record time. Prepare to be inspired and equipped with the tools to transform your approach to problem-solving.
The Design of Business
by Roger L. Martin
The Design of Business by Roger L. Martin is a captivating book about the art of product design. It delves into the strategies and thinking processes behind creating successful products that meet the needs of customers. Martin explores the intersection of analytical thinking and intuitive creativity, demonstrating how both are essential for designing innovative and profitable products. This book offers a fresh perspective on how to approach product design, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding the desires and aspirations of customers. With insightful case studies and practical examples, Martin provides valuable insights that will inspire anyone involved in the world of product design. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting out, this book will challenge your thinking and help you create products that truly make a difference.
Designing for Interaction
by Dan Saffer
Designing for Interaction is a captivating book about product design written by Dan Saffer that delves into the world of creating meaningful and engaging user experiences. This insightful book explores the principles, techniques, and strategies necessary for designing interactive products that truly resonate with users.
Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting out, this product design book offers valuable insights and practical advice for crafting intuitive interfaces, implementing effective interaction patterns, and understanding the psychology behind user behavior. With its emphasis on human-centered design and user-centric thinking, Designing for Interaction is a must-read for anyone looking to create products that not only look great but also provide exceptional experiences.
The Art of Innovation
by Tom Kelley
The Art of Innovation by Tom Kelley is a captivating book on product design that will ignite your creative spark. With his extensive experience as the General Manager of IDEO, a renowned design and innovation consultancy, Kelley shares invaluable insights on how to cultivate a culture of innovation within organizations. This book about product design explores the importance of empathy, experimentation, and collaboration in the creative process. From brainstorming techniques to prototyping strategies, Kelley provides practical tips and real-life examples that will inspire you to think outside the box. Whether you’re an aspiring designer or a seasoned professional, this product design book is a must-read for anyone looking to unleash their creative potential.
The Design of Future Things
by Don Norman
The Design of Future Things by Don Norman is a captivating book on product design that delves into the exciting world of creating innovative and user-friendly technologies. In this thought-provoking read, Norman explores the challenges and opportunities that arise when merging cutting-edge technology with human needs and desires. With his expertise in cognitive science and usability engineering, Norman offers valuable insights into how designers can create products that seamlessly integrate into our daily lives. This book about product design is a must-read for anyone intrigued by the future of technology and its impact on our society. Norman’s engaging writing style and practical examples make this product design book a delightful and enlightening journey into the design of tomorrow’s world.
Change by Design
by Tim Brown
Change by Design, written by Tim Brown, is a captivating book about the fascinating world of product design. This brilliant read takes readers on a journey into the realms of innovation, creativity, and problem-solving. Brown, a renowned design thinker, presents a fresh perspective on the power of design in transforming the way we live, work, and interact with the world around us. Through compelling anecdotes and real-life case studies, he illustrates how design thinking can be applied to tackle complex challenges and drive meaningful change. This book on product design is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the role of design in shaping our future, and how it can be harnessed to create innovative solutions that make a real difference.
Universal Principles of Design
by William Lidwell, Kritina Holden, and Jill Butler
Universal Principles of Design is a captivating book about product design that explores the fundamental principles behind creating visually appealing and functional designs. Written by William Lidwell, Kritina Holden, and Jill Butler, this book is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone interested in the world of design. Each principle is explained in a concise and engaging manner, making it accessible to both beginners and seasoned professionals. Whether you are a graphic designer, architect, or simply someone who appreciates well-designed products, this book will inspire and inform. From the concept of affordance to the power of storytelling, Universal Principles of Design covers a wide range of topics, making it an essential read for anyone passionate about the art and science of product design.
The Design Thinking Playbook
by Michael Lewrick, Patrick Link, and Larry Leifer
The Design Thinking Playbook is a captivating book on product design that takes readers on a journey to unlock their creative potential. Written by Michael Lewrick, Patrick Link, and Larry Leifer, this book about product design introduces the concept of design thinking as a powerful problem-solving methodology. It offers practical tools, real-life examples, and step-by-step instructions to help readers apply design thinking principles in their own projects. Whether you are a seasoned designer or a curious beginner, this product design book will inspire you to think differently, challenge assumptions, and embrace a human-centered approach to innovation. With its engaging storytelling and insightful strategies, The Design Thinking Playbook is a must-read for anyone looking to transform their ideas into impactful solutions.
Designing Interactions
by Bill Moggridge
Designing Interactions is a captivating book on product design that takes you on a journey through the fascinating world of human-computer interaction. Written by Bill Moggridge, a renowned designer and co-founder of IDEO, this book offers a comprehensive exploration of the principles, processes, and stories behind some of the most innovative and influential digital products of our time.
With its engaging narratives and insightful interviews with pioneers in the field, this book about product design presents a holistic view of the evolution of interactive technology. From the early days of the mouse and graphical user interfaces to the latest advancements in touchscreen interfaces and wearable devices, Moggridge provides valuable insights into the design decisions that shape our digital experiences.
Whether you are a designer, technologist, or simply curious about the intersection of humans and technology, Designing Interactions is a must-read product design book that will inspire and inform.
The Design of Design
by Frederick P. Brooks Jr.
The Design of Design by Frederick P. Brooks Jr. is a captivating book about the art and science of creating remarkable products. This must-read book on product design delves into the mind of a master designer, revealing his insights and experiences in the world of innovation. With his engaging storytelling style, Brooks takes readers on a journey through the challenges and triumphs of designing complex systems. From the birth of an idea to the final product, he explores the intricacies of problem-solving, collaboration, and decision-making. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or a curious novice, this product design book is a treasure trove of wisdom that will inspire, inform, and ignite your creative spirit.
Designing Brand Identity
by Alina Wheeler
Designing Brand Identity by Alina Wheeler is a captivating book about the art of crafting a strong brand image. This insightful guide goes beyond just product design, delving into the intricacies of creating a brand identity that resonates with consumers. Wheeler’s expertise and passion for branding shine through as she explores various strategies for building a memorable brand, from logo design to brand communication. With stunning visuals and real-world examples, this book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the power of branding and how it can elevate a product or company. Whether you’re a seasoned marketer or a budding entrepreneur, this product design book is a must-read for anyone looking to make a lasting impression in today’s competitive market.
The Elements of User Experience
by Jesse James Garrett
The Elements of User Experience, written by Jesse James Garrett, is a captivating book about product design. This insightful guide explores the various aspects that contribute to creating exceptional user experiences. Garrett breaks down the complex process of product design into five distinct planes: strategy, scope, structure, skeleton, and surface. Each plane is thoroughly explained, providing readers with practical techniques and valuable insights. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting your journey in the field, this book will equip you with the knowledge and tools to create user-centered designs that truly resonate with your audience. If you’re looking for a comprehensive and engaging book about product design, look no further than The Elements of User Experience.
Designing for Growth
by Jeanne Liedtka and Tim Ogilvie
Designing for Growth is a fascinating book on product design that explores the process of creating innovative solutions to complex problems. Written by Jeanne Liedtka and Tim Ogilvie, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of design thinking and innovation.
In this insightful book about product design, Liedtka and Ogilvie provide a practical framework and a set of tools to help readers unleash their creativity and design products that truly meet the needs of users. Through real-life examples and case studies, they illustrate how design thinking can be applied to a wide range of industries and challenges.
Whether you are a seasoned designer or just starting your journey in the field of product design, this book offers valuable insights and inspiration to help you think differently and create impactful solutions. Get ready to be inspired and take your design skills to the next level with Designing for Growth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 20 books about product design are essential reads for anyone looking to deepen their understanding and expertise in this field. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned professional, these books offer valuable insights, practical tips, and inspiring examples that will help you excel in the world of product design. From exploring the principles of user-centered design to delving into the latest trends and innovations, these books cover a wide range of topics that are crucial for success in this ever-evolving industry. So, grab a copy of these books and get ready to enhance your design skills and unleash your creativity!